Contents

Types  7

Export Controls  9

Definitions  11

Advantages of Swept versus

Real-Time Spectrum Analyzers  13

Applications  15

Product Comparison Chart  19

Instrumentation Guide  21

References  41

SPONSORED FEATURES

Low-Cost Modular
USB-Based Real-Time Analyzers  31

Sponsored Feature:
A Portable Handheld
Real-Time Analyzer  39

ADVERTISERS

Aaronia  Inside Front Cover,

20, 22, 29, 30, 32, 38, 40

EDICON USA 2016  6

EMC LIVE  28

Keysight  1, 20, 25, 29

Rohde & Schwarz  10, 20, 26, 29

4
 Real-Time
Spectrum
Analyzer
Mini Guide
KENNETH WYATT
Senior Technical Editor,
Interference Technology

INTRODUCTION

W
elcome to this new on-line “mini guide”
series from Interference Technology!
This first issue is devoted to real-time
spectrum analysis.
The spectrum analyzer is the one
“go-to” tool for every RF, microwave,
and EMC/EMI engineer. In recent years, a new acquisition tech-
nology has developed, based on FFT capture and digital signal
processing – the real-time (RT) spectrum analyzer. This new mini
guide from Interference Technology will review the basics of con-
ventional swept versus real-time spectrum analyzers and high-
light some of the recent advances and instrument form-factors.
We’ll continue on with a comparison of current products and key
specifications, available from several manufactures, and then de-
scribe a number of applications of real-time analysis, along with
sample screen captures.

5
 Types

T
here are three primary types of spectrum analyzer
systems; (1)  the classic swept-tuned analyzer,
(2)  the hybrid FFT analyzer, and (3)  the real-time
analyzer. There’s a rather blurred distinction be-
tween these last two analyzer topologies, as we’ll
discuss below.

7
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE
1. SWEPT-TUNED ANALYZER
This classic topology measures power versus frequency and
is based on a superhetrodyne principle. The input spectrum is fed
to a low-noise mixer and down-converted via a swept local oscil-
lator (LO) to a baseband intermediate frequency (IF). The input
frequency spectrum is filtered by a band pass filter. This then gets
detected and mapped using the appropriate (actual) input spec-
trum frequency limits (span). The bandwidth of the band-pass fil-
ter dictates the resolution bandwidth (RBW) of the measurement.
Better frequency resolution equates to longer sweep times, de-
pending on the frequency span selected. Typically, there will be
“dead time” (similar to Figure 1) between trace sweeps, where T1,
T2, etc., are the sweep times and CALC1, CALC2, etc., are the
times taken up by the time between sweeps.
Figure 1 – When the calculation time exceeds the time record window, the analyzer
is not operating in real time and there will be dead time, due to the gaps between
time records.
2. HYBRID FFT ANALYZER
The hybrid FFT-based analyzer uses much the same input to-
pology as the swept-tuned analyzer, but digitizes the intermediate
frequency (IF) from the mixer using a fast Fourier transform of the
input signals. A benefit is the use of digital filtering and associ-
ated improved filter shape factors and settling time. Typically, the
analyzer will capture the spectral data, then digitize and perform
calculations, then display the results. Because of the process-
ing time, there may be a gap (or dead time) between capturing
and displaying the spectral data (Figure 1). However, with today’s
technological advances in A/D converters and FFT processing,
there’s little difference any more between the Hybrid FFT analyzer
and real-time analyzer. Both are now using the same basic topol-
ogy with a fixed LO, which is stepped if the span is wider than the
FFT window.
8
3. REAL-TIME ANALYZER
A real-time analyzer uses a stationary LO, looks at narrow win-
dows of bandwidth (real-time bandwidth), and digitizes the incom-
ing spectrum. This digitized spectrum is stored in a time record
buffer (T1, T2, etc.) and held for processing by the FFT algorithm.
Ideally, once digitized, FPGAs process FFTs at a rate equal, or fast-
er, than the collection rate (Figure 2 and 3). However, this collection
rate depends on the span and resolution bandwidth. The major
difference between the hybrid FFT analyzer and real-time analyzer
is the sheer number-crunching ability of the real-time calculation,
as well as a fast graphics processor, which allows for a data-
dense display of various frequency-versus-time presentations and
digital demodulation.
Figure 2 – So long as the calculation time is less or equal to the time record acquisi-
tion time, the analyzer is capturing data in real time.
Real-time analyzers often use a stepped LO/FFT approach to
cover wide spans. For example, a span setting of several GHz
would require the LO be stepped multiple times in order to cover
the desired frequency range. In such a mode, the RTSA would
have dead time spots similar to the swept analyzer.
If the FFT calculation takes longer than the time required to
fill the time record buffer the data collection must stop and there
will be a gap (or dead time) between capturing and displaying
the spectral data. When the FFT calculation is finished, the time
record can be transferred to the FFT and collection of another
time record begun. Because some input data were missed, the
analyzer is no longer operating in real time.
The time record will vary with the span of the analyzer. For wide
frequency spans, the time record is shorter, allowing less time
for the FFT calculation. The frequency span or bandwidth setting
where the FFT computation time and time record are equal is the
real-time bandwidth (RTBW) of the analyzer. The RTBW for the
analyzers in this review range from 27 to 500 MHz.
 INTERFERENCE TECHNOLOGY

EXPORT CONTROLS

Figure 3 – With improved DSP calculations, the time records for spectrum acquisi-
tions are continuous.
Faster analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) allow a wider
analysis bandwidth. But, as digital signal processing (DSP) has
improved the real-time bandwidth has widened out from several
MHz to several hundred MHz. Some advanced analyzers use
multiple ADCs and overlapping FFT windows, as well as paral-
lel processing to capture the input spectrum without gaps dur-
ing the normal dead time (Figure 4). The processing is very fast
and can typically catch an intermittent pulse of as little as 1us
in duration.
T
he U.S. government limits the
export of some technologies
through the Department of Com-
merce’s Bureau of Industry and
Security. The Export Administra-
tion Regulations (EAR), Com-
merce Control List, Supplement No. 1 to Part
774 specifies that “signal analyzers with both
frequency mask trigger and 100% probability
of trigger (capture) for signals having a duration
of 15µs, or less”, would require export control.
Some analyzers avoid this commerce control
by either offering frequency mask triggering or
100% probability of intercept. For more informa-
tion, the web site is: https://www.bis.doc.gov.

Figure 4 – Multiple A/D converters and overlapping FFT windows allows continuous
spectrum and very narrow pulse capture.

For a more in-depth treatment of spectrum measurements, I

recommend Reference 1.

9
 Definitions

T
here are several terms that are important when eval-
uating real-time spectrum analyzers. Some of these
terms include; (1) Probability of Intercept (POI) and
the related Minimum Detection Time, (2)  Density
and Persistence, (3) Spectrogram, and (4) Decima-
tion. These terms are defined below.

11
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE

1. PROBABILITY OF INTERCEPT (POI) OR 3. SPECTROGRAM

MINIMUM DETECTION TIME
Users want to know, “What is the shortest duration of an event
(or pulse) that I can dependably observe?” This is a quantity best
expressed as a unit of time. In simple terms, the actual attainable
minimum detectable value depends on factors such as sample
rate (frequency span), window function, trigger level, noise level
and the maximum amplitude of the signal of interest. The difference
between analyzer noise level and input signal amplitude is the key
determining factor: the greater the offset, the shorter the minimum
detectable duration; the lower the offset (especially less than 20
dB), the greater the likelihood of noise interfering with the measure-
ment. For a more in-depth treatment of this, refer to Reference 2.
This is the minimum pulsed signal the real-time analyzer can
detect. For example (Reference 3) describes a sample calculation:
“Example: for an analyser with 40 MHz of realtime band-
width (the maximum RF span that can be processed in
realtime) approximately 50 Msample/second (complex)
are needed. If the spectrum analyzer produces 250 000
FFT/s an FFT calculation is produced every 4 µs. For a
1024 point FFT a full spectrum is produced 1024 x (1/50
x 106), approximately every 20 µs. This also gives us our
overlap rate of 80% (20 µs − 4 µs) / 20 µs = 80%.”
A spectrogram (or waterfall) display shows how the RF spec-
trum varies with time (Figure 5). The spectrogram display shows
all three dimensions of frequency, signal level, and time. The color
of the spectrogram indicates the signal level with red normally
indicating a higher level and blue indicating a lower level. Using
the spectrogram, it’s easy to visualize intermittent and dynamic
behavior of signals. The better analyzers allow a user-adjustable
time line, from fast to slow. This record may also be recorded on
some analyzers for future playback.
4. DECIMATION
The Nyquist theorem states that for baseband signals you only
need to sample at a rate equal to twice the highest frequency of
interest. For band pass signals you just need to sample at a rate
at least twice the bandwidth. The sample rate can be reduced
when the needed bandwidth is less than the maximum. Sample
rate reduction, or decimation, can be used to balance bandwidth,
processing time, record length and memory usage.

2. DENSITY AND
PERSISTENCE
The advantage of real time
analyzers is that they can show
a lot of data on the display, in-
cluding very fast moving or in-
termittent signals. By increasing
the density (or intensity) of the
plot, the difference between in-
frequent and steady signals may
be visualized easily. By varying
the persistence, brief signals
will show up longer on the dis-
play and then gradually disap-
pear. The better analyzers allow
a variable persistence. In addi-
tion, different signal levels can
be mapped to different colors
forming a multi-color display of
spectral activity.
Figure 5 – A sample spectrogram (left panel) from a Tektronix RSA306 USB-powered analyzer showing the transmitted signal
from a 900 MHz frequency-hopping radio. Time is the vertical axis with the earliest time capture at the bottom. As the display
slowly scrolls upward, each frequency hop may be seen as a small green rectangle, gradually stepping in frequency (horizontal
axis). The corresponding frequency versus amplitude plot is in the right-hand panel. Because of persistence mode, the signal
peaks slowly recede downward.

12
Advantages
of Swept
versus
Real-Time
Spectrum
Analyzers

13
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE

S
wept spectrum analyzers are simpler and less modulated signals may also be demodulated and analyzed. Pow-
costly than their digital FFT counterparts. However, er measurements, such as spectral power density (SPD) may also
they can only display a spectrum one sweep at a be calculated in both the frequency and time domains. Most of
time. There will be dead time between sweeps, so the higher-end analyzers are really vector signal analyzers (VSA),
it’s very possible they will miss or inaccurately cap- which preserve the amplitude and phase information. This infor-
ture fast-moving or brief pulsed signals, such as mation may be displayed any number of ways, allowing analy-
digitally-modulated or spread-spectrum signals like Wi-Fi, Blue- sis of high-speed digital data, including error vector magnitude
tooth, or a multitude of digital modulations. (EVM), a rating of digital modulation.
This problem of dead time is somewhat alleviated by using the
“Max Hold” feature on most analyzers, where multiple sweeps are BENEFITS OF SWEPT ANALYZERS
captured and “built-up” to reveal the envelope of the fast-moving
or intermittent signals. yy Generally lower cost
Real-time analyzers, on the other hand, have little, or no, dead yy Good phase noise and minimal spurs and usually superior
time between FFT captures, so are optimized to capture very fast dynamic range
moving or intermittent signals. This makes them ideal for captur- yy Able to sweep a broad range of frequencies while keeping
ing and displaying today’s digital communications systems, such good frequency resolution
as wireless and mobile systems. They are also ideal for spectrum yy Recent technologies have reduced the physical size
surveillance, with many of the high-end analyzer able to record yy Some are battery portable
and play back historical spectrum captures – even demodulating yy Familiar user interface and controls
the signals at a later time. This assumes, however, that the fre- yy Some test standards continue to specify swept measure-
quency spectrum being monitored is no wider than the real-time ments
bandwidth of the analyzer.
A distinct advantage with swept analyzers is their ability to
BENEFITS OF REAL-TIME ANALYZERS
sweep a broad range of frequencies while maintaining a narrow
frequency resolution. For example, they can sweep from near zero
yy Very fast capture rate
to 10 GHz with a resolution bandwidth of 1 kHz in a single sweep
yy Fast “data-dense” displays (density, persistence, spectro-
and not miss any steady signals. An FFT-based analyzer would
gram)
have to step the LO and make multiple measurements to piece
yy Able to capture fast-moving or intermittent signals with
together the same 10 GHz span, with the resulting dead time
100% POI
in between frequency bands. This may actually take longer than
yy Able to display multiple signals within the same frequency
sweeping…it depends. However, for most current FFT analyz-
channel
ers, the narrower the RBW the more the speed advantage of FFT
yy Spectrum-based frequency-mask triggering
because it simultaneously calculates all the measurement points
yy Can view elusive or dynamic signal behavior
within the FFT analysis BW. Therefore, the smaller the RBW the
yy Can demodulate and analyze digital data
faster the speed advantage of FFT.
Another big advantage of real-time analyzers is the fact that
the persistence mode can display multiple signals on the same
frequency or band channel. For example, multiple Wi-Fi signals
on a single channel may be observed and analyzed.
In addition, features like spectrogram (waterfall) displays,
showing spectral captures versus time, are very useful for iden-
tifying interference or EMI issues. Many have Frequency Mask
Triggering (FMT), where a mask is generated around a signal or
portion of spectrum of interest. If an intermittent signal penetrates
the mask, the data is instantly captured and recorded. This al-
lows post-capture analysis of recorded interference or
intermittent EMI.
Finally, the “I/Q” baseband data may
be used to display digitally modulat-
ed data streams as constellation
plots or demodulated digital
data versus time. AM,
FM, and phase-

14
 Applications

T
here are a number of interesting applications for
real-time spectrum analyzers, primarily when mea-
suring brief events or digital modulations. These in-
clude (1) pulse measurements, (2) evaluating radar,
(3)  VCO and PLL analysis, (4)  RFID transponders,
(5) spectrum management and surveillance, (6) ra-
dio communication and wireless, and (7) EMI analysis. We’ll be
discussing these applications in the section below.

15
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE

Figure 6 – The U.S. FM broadcast band showing stations from 87 to 108 MHz. Depending on the size of the metropolitan area, coverage area, and propagation conditions,
it’s highly likely that two, or more stations may interfere with each other in the fringe areas of coverage. This is the whole basis of spectrum management.

1. PULSE MEASUREMENTS 4. RFID

Pulse information for carrier frequency, rise and fall times, occu-
pied spectrum, and pulse width are some of the many measurements
that may be performed. Examples might include pulse repetition fre-
quency (PRF), duty cycle, and pulse-to-pulse phase information.
2. RADAR
Analyzing pulse measurements in both the time and frequency
domain simplifies radar testing and characterization. Things like
spurs, noise Figure, and spectrum occupancy are easily mea-
sured. The persistence mode can also reveal interference issues
with the radar system.
3. VCO/PLL ANALYSIS
Voltage-controlled oscillators or phase-locked loop ICs can
often produce random, sweeping, or glitch behav-
ior that would not be detected by normal
swept analyzers. Real-time analyzers
can capture this frequency versus
time (and even temperature)
behavior in order to opti-
mize circuit designs.
Things like radio frequency identification (RFID), near-field
communication (NFC), tire pressure-monitoring systems (TPMS)
systems may all be monitored and analyzed using real-time ana-
lyzers. These systems operate from 135 kHz to 2.4 GHz and in
both active and passive modes. Many of these systems operate
in the Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) bands and are thus
susceptible to other interfering signals, which may easily be iden-
tified using real-time analysis.
5. SPECTRUM MANAGEMENT
AND SURVEILLANCE
Detection of intermittent signals in the presence of other signals
is near impossible with swept analyzers. For example, real-time
analyzers can easily differentiate different Wi-Fi access points using
the same channel or a short impulsive signal amidst several oth-
ers. This is one area where real-time analyzers really shine. Keep in
mind this assumes the spectrum being monitored is no wider than
the real-time bandwidth. Using frequency mask triggers helps cap-
ture any intermittent signals with near-100% probability. Recording
of spectrum usage for later playback and analysis is important for
both surveillance and spectrum management (Figure 6).

16
 INTERFERENCE TECHNOLOGY

Figure 7 – The 2.4 GHz ISM band is displayed using a Tektronix RSA306 USB-controlled analyzer. Multiple Wi-Fi signals on adjacent (and the same) channels, as well
as Bluetooth frequency-hopping signals, may be observed. As more wireless devices are used within a given area, the chances of collisions occur more frequently, with
resulting slowdown of data transmission.

17
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE
Figure 8 – Again, looking at the 2.4 GHz ISM band, we see a microwave oven sweeping through much of the band. This would completely jam a Wi-Fi signal in the near
vicinity. The pulses captured are periods when the magnetron is turning on and off in sync with the power line frequency.
6. RADIO COMMUNICATIONS AND WIRELESS
Most of todays radio communications systems are now digi-
tally controlled with remote or automatically adjustable frequency
and power. In addition, with the proliferation of mobile products
and “Internet of Things” (IoT) expanding exponentially, the prob-
ability of interference – especially in the license-free ISM bands
– will only increase. Real-time spectrum analyzers will more likely
become the tool of choice in resolving these potential interference
or coexistence issues (Figure 7). In addition, real-time analyzers
would be ideal as a basis for mobile direction-finding (DFing) in-
terference sources to commercial broadcast or communications
systems (Reference 4).
7. ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE (EMI)
For the same reasons above as well as the
growing complexity within both mili-
tary and commercial products, the
chances of one device interfering
with another device or com-
munications system is
18
also on the increase (Figure 8). In addition, clock rates and edge
speeds are ever increasing and test failures are on the increase.
Troubleshooting with a real-time analyzer makes short work of
intermittent or complex EMI problems. Fortunately, EMI standards
bodies are gradually incorporating the newer-technology FFT-
based spectrum analyzers as options for compliance measure-
ments. One distinct advantage of real-time analyzers, when used
for compliance testing, is that they can capture harmonic signals
within the required spectrum range very quickly, saving test time,
as well as capture complex frequency versus time analysis.
SUMMARY
While real-time spectrum analyzers are more expensive,
they are generally the better choice for capturing fast moving,
dynamic, or very narrow impulsive signals, as well as analyzing
and displaying digital modulations clearly. Just be aware of their
limitations when looking across a span greater than their real-time
bandwidth. Thanks to low cost components, there are real-time
solutions to fit most any budget and performance level.
Product
Comparison
Chart

19
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE

Upper Freq RT Bandwidth

Manf/Model Lower Freq 100% POI Price ($, £)
(GHz) (MHz)
Aaronia
HF-8060/80120 V5 9kHz 6, 12, 16, 20 40, 80/175 (opt) <1us / 10ns Pulse 3,998-9,998
HF-8060/80120 V5 5.25PC 9kHz 6, 12, 16, 20 40, 80/175 (opt) <1us / 10ns Pulse 3,498-9,498
HF-8060/80120 V5 ODB 9kHz 6, 12, 16, 20 40, 80/175 (opt) <1us / 10ns Pulse 5,998-11,998
HF-8060/80120 V5 OEM 9kHz 6, 12, 16, 20 40, 80/175 (opt) <1us / 10ns Pulse 3,498-9,498
HF-8060/80120 V5 RSA 9kHz 6, 12, 16, 20 40, 80/175 (opt) <1us / 10ns Pulse 5,498-11,498
HF-8060/80120 V5 X 9kHz 6, 12, 16, 20 40, 80/175 (opt) <1us / 10ns Pulse 3,498-9,498
Spectran XFR V5 PRO 1Hz 20 80/175 (opt) <1us / 10ns Pulse 25,000
Berkeley Nucleonics
RTSA-7500-8B 100kHz 8 10 1.02us 3,950
RTSA-7500-8 100kHz 8 100 1.02us 6,150
RTSA-7500-18 100kHz 18 100 1.02us 9,910
RTSA-7500-27 100kHz 27 100 1.02us 13,465
Gauss Instruments
TDEMI M/M+ series 10Hz 1, 3, 6 162.5 <300ps 25,000
TDEMI G series 10Hz 1 to 40 162.5 <300ps 40,000
TDEMI X 10Hz 1 to 40 325/645 <300ps 50,000
Keysight
N9020A-RT1 MXA 10Hz 3.6 to 26.5 85, 160 17.3us 59,571
N9020A-RT2 MXA 10Hz 3.6 to 26.5 85, 160 3.57us 62,733
N9020B-RT1 MXA 10Hz 3.6 to 26.5 85, 160 17.3us 59,571
N9020B-RT2 MXA 10Hz 3.6 to 26.5 85, 160 3.57us 62,733
N9030A-RT1 PXA 3Hz 3.6 to 50 85, 160 17.3us 88,008
N9030A-RT2 PXA 3Hz 3.6 to 50 85, 160 3.57us 92,201
N9030B-RT1 PXA 3Hz 3.6 to 50 85, 160, 509.47 17.3us 88,088
N9030B-RT2 PXA 3Hz 3.6 to 50 85, 160, 509.47 3.57us 92,201
N9038A-RT1 MXE 3Hz 3.6 to 44 40/85 3.71us 83,500
N9040B-RT1 UXA 3Hz 3.6 to 50 255, 509.47 17.17us 130,613
N9040B-RT2 UXA 3Hz 3.6 to 50 255, 509.47 3.51us 136,553
Rohde & Schwarz
ESR3-B50/K55 opt 9KHZ 3.6 40 24us to 82ms 86,000
ESR7-B50/K55 opt 9KHZ 7 40 24us to 82ms 53,000
ESR26-B50/K55 opt 9KHZ 26.5 40 24us to 82ms 111,000
ESW 2Hz 8 to 44 80 15us 86,000
FSVR 10Hz 7 to 40 40 12.5us 50,000
Signal Hound
BB60C 9kHz 6 27 1us 2,879
Tektronix
RSA306 9kHz 6.2 40 100us 3,490
RSA5103B 1Hz 3 25, 40, 80, 125, 165 .434us 25,400
RSA5106B 1Hz 6.2 25, 40, 80, 125, 165 .434us 34,900
RSA5115B 1Hz 15 25, 40, 80, 125, 165 .434us 43,900
RSA5126B 1Hz 26.5 25, 40, 80, 125, 165 .434us 49,900

Table 1 – This table lists all the known real-time spectrum analyzers currently available. The base analyzer model is listed, along with optional frequency limits and other speci-
fications. The prices listed are for the base models with minimum frequency range and minimum real-time bandwidth and are listed in Euros or USD (about equivalent at today’s
exchange rate). Additional options are extra. Some specifications, such as 100% ROI, are dependent on several factors and are difficult to compare between manufacturers, due
to the varying instrument setups and assumptions made. The specifications listed were gleaned as best I could from the manufacturers data sheets. Specifications not listed
were not found in the data sheets or were not reported in time for publication. I’d encourage readers to contact the manufacturers for any clarification in specifications or pricing.

20
Instrumentation
Guide

21
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE

AARONIA AG

Figure 9 – Aaronia sells this ruggedized military version of the Spectran V5 real-time analyzer with a 1 Hz to 20 GHz frequency range. It is billed as a counter-surveillance receiv-
er with integrated GPS receiver and can scan 20 GHz in less than 20 ms. Real time bandwidth is up to 175 MHz, depending on the model and whether you order the increased
bandwidth option. There is up to 8TB fast SSD recording storage. Applications would include technical surveillance countermeasures (TSCM), security surveys and eavesdrop-
ping detection, interference hunting, radio monitoring and enforcement, EMC/EMI testing, and spectrum management. Base price is $25,000. Image courtesy Aaronia AG.

22
 INTERFERENCE TECHNOLOGY

BERKELEY NUCLEONICS

Figure 10 – Berkeley Nucleonics recently introduced a small Ethernet-controllable analyzer with 100 MHz real-time bandwidth. Being controlled via Ethernet allows opera-
tion remotely from the controlling PC. In addition, multiple analyzers may be controlled by the same PC and synced together to gain higher real-time bandwidths – a unique
feature not available on competing models. Frequency ranges start at 100 kHz and go to 8/18/27 GHz. Prices range from $3,950 to 13,465, depending on the model.
Image courtesy Berkeley Nucleonics.

23
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE

GAUSS INSTRUMENTS GMBH

Figure 11 – Gauss Instruments was one of the pioneers of the real-time FFT analyzer. They currently have three model series that start at 10 Hz and go up to
1/3/6//26.5/40 GHz (depending on model). The real-time bandwidths are 162.5 MHz and 325 (645 MHz option) for the “X“ series. Base prices range from $25,000 to
$50,000. Image courtesy Gauss Instruments GmbH.

24
 INTERFERENCE TECHNOLOGY

KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES

Figure 12 – Keysight Technologies sells several models in the N90n0A- and new B-series, with the N9038A model specifically designed for EMI measurements. Shown
above is the new style N9030B PXA analyzer. Frequency ranges from 3/10/20 Hz to 3.6/8.4/13.6/26.5/43/44/50 GHz (depending on the model). Real-time bandwidth
ranges from 40 to 509.47 MHz depending on the model. Base prices range from $59,571 to $136,553. Image courtesy Keysight Technologies.

25
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE

ROHDE & SCHWARZ

Figure 13 – Rohde & Schwarz offers their new ESW EMI test receiver with 80 MHz real-time capture (shown in the figure) with touchscreen control, and includes models
that cover 2 Hz to 8/26/44 GHz. All models include a very fast FFT-based time domain scan, which can be run with two CISPR detectors to record parallel measurements.
In addition, the new ESW includes special notch filters for the 2.4 and 5.6 GHz ISM bands, to help prevent signal overload when making sensitive measurements outside,
but near, these bands. Other models include the FSVR and ESR3/7/26 that can range in frequency from 9 kHz (10 Hz option on FSVR) to 3.6/7/26.5 GHz. Real-time band-
widths are 40 MHz for all models. Base prices range from $50,000 to $77,000. Image courtesy Rohde & Schwarz.

26
 INTERFERENCE TECHNOLOGY

TEKTRONIX

Figure 14 – The Tektronix RSA-5126B analyzer (shown in the figure), plus others in the RSA5100-series tune from 1 Hz to 3/6/15/26 GHz (depending on the model).
Real-time bandwidths range from 25/40/80/125/165 MHz (depending on the option). Prices on this series range from $25,400 to $49,900. They also offer their RSA306
USB-controlled real-time analyzer that tunes from 9 kHz to 6 GHz (see sidebar). Image courtesy Tektronix.

27
 Manufacturers

M
ost of these manufacturers will have several
good references, application notes and vid-
eos on real-time spectrum analysis on their
web sites.

Aaronia http://www.aaronia.com

Berkeley Nucleonics http://www.berkeleynucleonics.

com/products/real-time-spectrum-
analyzer-7500.html

Gauss Instruments http://www.gauss-instruments.com/en/

products/tdemi

Keysight Technologies http://www.keysight.com/en/pc-

2278039/real-time-spectrum-analyzer-
rtsa?cc=US&lc=eng

Rohde & Schwarz https://www.rohde-schwarz.

com/en/product/fsvr-
productstartpage_63493-11047.html

Signal Hound https://signalhound.com/products/

bb60c/

Tektronix http://www.tek.com/spectrum-analyzer

29
Low-Cost
Modular
USB-Based
Real-Time
Analyzers

31
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE
Figure 15 – The Signal Hound BB60C USB-controlled real-time spectrum analyzer, shown with supplied accessory. The unit is small enough to be Velcro’d to the lid of a laptop.
R
ecent technology advances in mobile communica-
tions has now supplied the test and measurement
industry with small, custom, application-specific
components and ICs that allow miniaturization of
conventional bench top instruments.
Companies such as Signal Hound, Tektronix,
Berkeley Nucleonics, Aaronia, and others, have jumped at the
chance to produce small USB-powered (or Ethernet-controlled)
modules that have very advanced measurement capability at un-
heard of price points. I’d like to feature two of these – the Signal
Hound BB60C and Tektronix RSA306.
Signal Hound introduced their model
BB60C real-time analyzer module a
couple years ago that is designed to
work with a high-performance
PC laptop or desktop com-
puter under the Win-
32
dows OS (Figure 15). The analyzer covers 9 kHz to 6 GHz and
has a 27 MHz real-time bandwidth with +10 to -158 dynamic
range. The architecture uses 50% overlapping FFT windows for
a 100% POI down to as low as 1.6 µs pulses. The price is just
$2,879.
The analyzer can display near instant frequency information
in up to a 27 MHz instantaneous bandwidth (IBW) with an amaz-
ing 24 GHz/sec sweep speed with 1.2 million FFTs/sec. The re-
sponse is so quick, it can trap and display intermittent signals with
pulse width as narrow as 4 µs, with 1.6 µs pulses only attenuated
by 2-3 dB. The I/Q data stream is sent through the USB 3.0 port
and data streams between 250 kHz to 27 MHz of amplitude-cor-
rected bandwidth may be viewed. The software also includes the
ability to measure EVM, constellation diagrams, symbol tables,
and bit pattern recognition for various PSK and QAM modulation
formats. It can display the spectrogram (waterfall) in either 2D or
3D as shown in Figure 16.
 INTERFERENCE TECHNOLOGY

Figure 16 – The user interface for the Signal Hound BB60C is showing the FM broadcast band with a scrolling 3D spectrogram display. The user controls are well designed
and easy to control.

Figure 17 – One more example of the Signal Hound display showing some product harmonics using an H-field probe, along with a 2D spectrogram of the frequency versus
time. Notice that one of the harmonics is pulsing (red dots towards the center of the spectrogram).

33
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE
Figure 18 – The Tektronix RSA306 USB-controlled real-time spectrum analyzer, shown with supplied PC-Vu software. Image courtesy Tektronix.
Because much of the signal processing is performed within the
PC, you’ll need a pretty powerful computer. In fact, the minimum
recommended setup would be a PC running Windows 7 or 8, with
an Intel i7 with a quad core processor, 8 GB RAM, one USB 3.0 port
and one adjacent USB 2.0 or 3.0 port, and OpenGL 3.0 capable
graphics processor. Most high-end PC laptops should work well.
ARCHITECTURE
The BB60C analyzer is based upon a two-stage superhetero-
dyne receiver. Two independent IF frequencies (1.26 and 2.42.
GHz) are used based on the tuned RF frequency. Distributed ele-
ment notch filters are used to suppress spurious responses. To
reduce second-order intermodulation, push-pull
amplifiers are used to cancel even-order
mixing. Direct conversion is used
below 10 MHz to avoid mixing
products. The front end uses
a preamp-attenuator
combination that has
a spurious-free
34
dynamic range better than 50 dB. The 14-bit ADC uses built-
in dithering, which adds improved linearity as well as decreased
spurious IF responses. ADC spurs are typically less than 70 dB
below the carrier. From the ADC, the digitized IF data goes to an
FPGA, where it’s packetized and sent over a USB 3.0 port to the
PC, where 80 million 14-bit ADC samples per second are pro-
cesses into a spectrum sweep or I/Q data stream.
If portability is an issue and you have a powerful enough lap-
top, this may be just the ticket to affordable EMI pre-compliance
testing or troubleshooting. The user interface is clearly laid out and
the controls worked just as you would expect of most bench top
analyzers (Figure 17). I'm often on the road visiting clients and tot-
ing around a 6 GHz analyzer in my briefcase sounds pretty good.
Tektronix also introduced their model RSA306 USB-powered
modular real-time analyzer about March 2014 (Figure 18). It also
requires a high-performance PC using the Windows OS. It should
be noted that the supplied SignalVu-PC software will allow basic
spectral measurements with lower-performance PCs, but for the
more intensive measurements, like spectrograms and digital sig-
nal analysis, the faster PCs are required.
 INTERFERENCE TECHNOLOGY

Figure 19 – The user interface screen for the PC-Vu software used by the RSA306 analyzer. This shows a comparison between a swept spectral plot (right) and the
real-time plot with spectrogram display (left). We’re looking at a part of the 2.4 GHz ISM band and there are at least three separate Wi-Fi signals, along with a frequency-
hopping Bluetooth signal. None of this information is refinement is observable in the swept plot.

The unit is ruggedized with a rubber covering over a cast alu- instrument lies within the software, upgrades and adding optional
minum enclosure and is about the same size as a paperback measurement capabilities are easy.
novel and costs just $3,490. The frequency range is 9 kHz to 6.2 In summary, the rugged quality of the RSA306 and the func-
GHz and has a dynamic range of +20 to -160 dBm (at minimum tionality Tektronix has built into the SignalVu-PC software is im-
resolution bandwidth of 100 Hz). While the FFT architecture is pressive. The RSA306 is a relatively low-cost analysis solution for
non-overlapping, the unit can capture fast transient pulses with its companies who wish to perform pre-compliance testing or EMI
40 MHz real-time IF bandwidth, through use of frequency mask troubleshooting of their products prior to formal compliance test-
triggering. The measurement input is an N connector with protec- ing. I can also see it used in university settings (unit includes a
tive rubber cap. security slot) or training seminars and for applications, such as
One reason for the low cost is that much of the functional- wireless troubleshooting or hunting down interference to commu-
ity lies in the SignalVu-PC RF analysis software (Figure 19). The nication systems.
software includes 17 standard spectrum and signal analysis
measurements, with several optional application-specific options
available ($995, each). These options include mapping, modula-
tion analysis, standards support (such as APCO P25 and WLAN),
pulse measurements and frequency settling. The real time (DPX
mode) can detect transient or intermittent signals as short as
100 µs, which would aid in interference hunting (Figure 20). The
software can also capture streaming and audio demodulation for
long-term surveillance monitoring. Because the personality of the

35
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE

Figure 20 – Another screen capture of the PC-Vu interface showing an intermittent interfering signal in the 2.4 GHz ISM band. Marker “M1” is positioned on the intermit-
tent signal location, but it can’t be seen in the swept plot (right). We’ve configured a frequency mask trigger (lower left), which freezes the interfering signal (shown in
red). The spectrogram display (upper left) can then show the timing between interfering pulses.

36
 INTERFERENCE TECHNOLOGY
Figure 21 – The Berkeley Nucleonics RTSA7500 real-time spectrum analyzer tunes
100 kHz to 8/18/27 GHz, depending on the model. The unit is controlled via Ethernet.
Figure 22 – A screen capture of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals using the persistence mode on the Berkeley Nucleonics RTSA7500 analyzer. The software is going through
continued development at this early stage, so the final user interface may look different from that shown.
Unlike several competing modular spectrum analyzers, the
RTSA7500-8 is controlled via Ethernet. The nice thing about an
Ethernet-controlled measuring instrument is the fact the instru-
ment may be placed remotely and controlled and monitored re-
motely. Good points include the ability to be controlled from Eth-
ernet and the fact the unit is powered from 12 volts allows mobile
I’ve always thought of Berkeley Nucleonics Corporation
(BNC) as the “go-to” company for scientific measurement instru-
ments and they’re probably not the first company that comes to
mind when shopping for general test equipment, such as oscil-
loscopes and spectrum analyzers. However, BNC recently an-
nounced a new line of PC-controlled real-time spectrum analyz-
ers, the RTSA7500-series.
Upon first examination, the unit is well-constructed with little
on the front panel except a power switch and SMA RF input port,
along with a few status lights. The unit is about 10.5 x 7 x 2.4 inch-
es in size and weighs 6 pounds. The product line includes models
with upper frequency ranges of 8, 18, and 27 GHz. All have a
lower frequency limit of 100 kHz and a real-time bandwidth of 100
MHz. There’s one 8 GHz model (RTSA7500-8B) that just has a 10
MHz real-time bandwidth. All are controlled via an Ethernet port on
the rear panel. BNC provides custom PC software to control it. An
external 12V 3.3 amp power supply module supplies the analyzer.
or battery operation. I also really like the fact you
get a real-time bandwidth of 100 MHz, so,
for example, you can observe the en-
tire 2.4 GHz ISM/Wi-Fi band.
37
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE

Figure 23 – Aaronia sells the same basic Spectran V5 real-time analyzer in a multitude of packages, including this USB-controlled unit. Frequency ranges are 9 kHz to
6/12/16/20 GHz. Real time bandwidths start at 40/80 to 175 MHz, depending on the model and whether you order the increased bandwidth option. Prices range from
about $4,000 to $10,000 for the USB model. Image courtesy Aaronia AG.

Aaronia AG has been on a development binge lately, intro-
ducing their SPECTRAN V5-series in various form factors. Models
include the USB-controlled one pictured, as well as one that fits
into a standard 5.25-inch PC drive bay, a rack-mount version, an
OEM version, and the ruggedized military version shown in the
Instrumentation Guide. In addition, they’ve been actively updating
their free PC-based software to include many new features.
The USB-controlled module has an SMA connector for RF in-
put and requires only a single USB cable for power and control,
an advantage over some that require two USB cables for power.
The analyzer requires just an Intel i5, or equivalent, processor and
is only just a bit larger than the Signal Hound BB60C unit.

38
Sponsored
Feature:
A Portable
Handheld
Real-Time
Analyzer

39
 2016 REAL TIME SPECTRUM ANALYZER MINI GUIDE

A
aronia has recently introduced a unique hand
held real-time spectrum analyzer (Figure 24). The
model Spectran V5 covers 9 kHz to 6/12/16/20
GHz and offers 40 or 80 MHz real-time band-
width, upgradable to 80 or 175 MHz, depending
on the specific model. It comes with some so-
phisticated Windows-PC software that displays the usual things
like spectrogram and digital I/Q plots.
The unit is controlled via touch screen or conventional but-
tons and toggle switch. Also available is an optional drop-in
desktop charger.
Aaronia also sells several types of reduced-size antennas, as
well as a GPS/compass accessory, that when matched with the
Spectran V5, would be the ideal setup for mobile or portable in-
terference hunting.

Figure 24 – The Aaronia Spectran V5 in hand held package. Image courtesy Aaronia AG.

40
 References
1. Witte, Spectrum and Network Measurements, 2nd Edition,
2014, SciTech Publishing

2. http://cp.literature.agilent.com/litweb/pdf/5991-4317EN.pdf

3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spectrum_analyzer

4. Wyatt & Gruber, Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) Pocket

Guide, 2015, SciTech Publishing
http://www.amazon.com/Radio-Frequency-Interference-
Pocket-Electromagnetics/dp/1613532199/ref=asap_
bc?ie=UTF8

5. Fundamentals of Real-Time Spectrum Analyzers (Tektronix)

http://info.tek.com/www-fundamentals-of-real-time-
spectrum-analysis.html

6. The Future of EMC Test Laboratory Capabilities (Rohde &

Schwarz)
http://www.rohde-schwarz-usa.com/rs/324-UVH-477/
images/Future_of_EMC_Test_Laboratory_Capabilities_
White_Paper.pdf?aliId=7011308

7. Measuring Agile Signals and Dynamic Signal Environments

(Keysight)
https://www.keysight.com/main/editorial.jspx?cc=US&lc=en
g&ckey=2314444&id=2314444

41
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